As a result of a multi-stage special operation in several regions of Ukraine, the SSU exposed an agent of russia’s FSB. 

Following the aggressor’s instructions, the spy collected information on location of key power substations in Kharkiv, Sumy, Poltava, Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

The enemy agent also ‘informed’ the occupiers about approximate voltage of the energy facilities and the damage caused by russian attacks.

The aggressor needed the intelligence for preparation of new air strikes on power substations to cause blackouts in Ukraine’s 5 regions.

The SSU Military Counterintelligence detained the suspect in Kharkiv when he was conducting reconnaissance for the FSB.

According to the investigation, the enemy accomplice is an official of the regional branch of Ukrenergo [National Power Company Ukrenergo], who headed a group on optimization and calculation of electricity losses.

The SSU established that the russian special service had recruited him long before the full-scale invasion and put him on ‘standby’.

After 24 February 2022, the FSB activated the sleeper agent and instructed him to conduct reconnaissance and sabotage against Ukraine.

Pre-arranged secure electronic channels were used for communication.

The traitor passed the collected intelligence to the occupiers through a ‘liaison’ in the temporarily occupied Horlivka.

During the searches at the suspect’s home, the SSU found a mobile phone, a laptop and a tablet with evidence of the crime.

SSU investigators served the detained agent a notice of suspicion of high treason committed under martial law (Article 28.2, 111.2 of the CCU).

The suspect is in custody, facing life imprisonment. The investigation is ongoing.

The operation was carried out jointly with the investigators of the SSU Kharkiv Office under the procedural supervision of Kharkiv Region Prosecutor’s Office.